I thought today I'd clear up some confusion with dry skin and dehydrated skin. I get a lot of clients who say their skin is dry, when it is actually oily, or the other way round. On the other hand, people say they have 'normal' skin. From my experience, no-one I've treated has ever had normal skin, it is the least common skin type.

Skin types - you were born with it, and have always had it.
Skin conditions - a temporary issue, caused by the environment/weather/incorrect products/etc.

The best thing to do is to treat the skin condition first, then the skin type.

Dehydration
Easily the most common skin condition. About 95% of people are dehydrated, especially this time of year. Dehydration is often confused with dry skin, they have similar characteristics but different underlying reasons. 

• caused by a lack of water in the skin.
• 'tight' feeling.
• skin looks dull, 'grey' looking.
• can confusingly still have spots/breakouts and oilyness.
• pores can be large or small.
• absorbs moisturiser very quickly.
• make up disappears throughout the day, because your skin is absorbing any water in your foundation.
• anyone with dehydrated skin can often suffer with lots of headaches, and dark circles under the eyes.

Causes
All, or any of the following can cause dehydrated or dry skin:

• Environment - wind, cold air, air conditioning, central heating, too much sun.
• Diet - processed foods, alcohol, caffeine, not drinking enough water.
• Lifestyle - Stress, using the wrong products, poor skincare routine, medication.
• Monthly cycle, pregnancy
• Smoking - one of the biggest causes, and one of the worst things for your skin. Smoking starves the skin cells of oxygen, making it less plump and bouncy, and making it look grey.  I can tell if someone smokes just by looking at their skin.

Tips for both dry and dehydrated skin

• Avoid foaming products for both dry and dehydrated skin.
• Use oils, balms and milks for cleansing.
• Stay away from mineral oil and silicones in skincare products.
• Steer clear of synthetic fragrances in products.
• It is possible to have both dry and dehydrated skin, if you suspect you do - treat the dehydration first.